Apple plans to let iPhone users choose which third-party AI models power on-device features in iOS 27

Apple is planning a feature called "Extensions" (internally) for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 that will let users select from multiple third-party large language models to power on-device AI functions like Siri, Writing Tools, and Image Playground. Models from Google and Anthropic are currently being tested.

Users will be able to "access generative AI capabilities from installed apps on demand" through Apple Intelligence features, according to messages shown in test versions of the software. ChatGPT is currently available to users and one implication is that it will remain a choice.

Apple's incoming CEO John Ternus is shaping the company's AI strategy, which focuses on turning existing hardware into an AI-centric experience rather than spending heavily on new AI infrastructure and services.